Anabs Sara-Igbe, a member of the River Elders Council, called on President Bola Tinubu to suspend Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike for his role in the state’s political unrest.
Sara-Igbe spoke on the politics of the channel today, expressing strong opposition to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy Skin ODU, President Tinob.
Sara-Igbe questioned the legitimacy of President Tinubu’s actions and pointed out that the president has no constitutional power to suspend democratic elections from the governor.
“He did not suspend the governor’s constitutional powers,” Sara-Igbe said the basis for questioning such a move.
He further raised concerns about the president’s handling of the situation, pointing to the inadequate action on Vick, which he believes is the source of problems that are ongoing in Rivers.
“But, a minister who incited his appointment to the entire issue, he never questioned or approved him. What prevented him from sanctioning the minister who caused the entire issue?” He asked.
The fierce dispute between Governor Fobara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, has exacerbated political unrest in River State.
Such conflicts have led to violent conflicts, legislative deadlocks and escalating violence, including explosions and destruction of oil pipelines.
President Tinubu declared the river in a state of emergency on Tuesday, suspending Governor Fobala, his deputy and all elected members of the state capitol.
The president believes that the state’s “disturbing violence” is the main reason for such drastic action.
However, Sara-Igbe accused Wike of being the central figure behind the crisis. He argued that Vick, who he believed was the main agitator, was still unaffected despite the president’s suspension of elected officials.
“You have suspended the election of governor, but you cannot suspend the minister who is the source of all problems,” He said.
Sara-Igbe also criticized President Tinubu for his unfair way of resolving the conflict. He said, “If two kids are fighting, you will defeat two kids, and heaven will say you are fair. You can’t go all out and abuse him when he is not a trouble that insults everyone.”
He further accused Wike of inciting divisions across the country, noting that the FCT minister made derogatory comments on various ethnic groups, which led to growing tensions in the country.
“He insulted every part of the country. He insulted his grandfather, called on race to come out and cause problems. But peace, people who obey you are the ones you approve of,” Sarah Ibi summarized.
